Next to the Roman Coliseum is beautiful and amazingly well-preserved Arch of Constantine, named after the first Christian emperor, Constantine. It was built in 315 AD, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of his accession to power. In the past, all triumphal processions passed through this Arch.

Although the arch was built for Christian emperor, there are no Christian motifs on it. Emperor Constantine was only baptized on his deathbed which was 22 years later. Most of the decorative works comes from other buildings from previous emperors.

Arch of Constantine, Rome by Julius for Travel via Italy

On both sides of the arch’s upper part you can see eight rectangular reliefs. They originally belonged to the Arch of Marcus Aurelius, which is not existing any more. A portrait of the emperor was later doctored to Constantine form.

Oval medallions located above the side arches came from other memorials. They include hunting and sacrificial scenes from the first half of the 2nd century – from the reign of Constantine predecessor Hadrian. Neither the eight statues of barbarians at the top of a poles are original.

Arch of Constantine with Coliseum, Rome by Julius for Travel via Italy

Some parts of the arch, of course, are the original, but even a person who does not deal with architecture, simply identifies the inferior quality of them. On both sides, just below the medallions are four panel moldings, which were created specifically for this arc.

More noteworthy is the panel moldings on the south side, on which is displayed Constantine with his army around Verona.

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